Applications for the Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary Programme 2027 are now officially open, offering financial support to deserving South African students pursuing scarce skills qualifications.
For many students, the cost of higher education remains one of the biggest barriers to completing a university qualification. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, textbooks, and daily living expenses can place significant pressure on students and their families. The Schauenburg Education Trust aims to help address this challenge by investing in talented students who are pursuing qualifications that are in demand within South Africa’s economy.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
The bursary programme focuses on developing future professionals in engineering and business-related fields while contributing to skills development and transformation in South Africa.
Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and will close on 31 July 2026.
Quick Overview
- Bursary Programme: Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary Programme 2027
- Applications Open: 1 June 2026
- Applications Close: 31 July 2026
Study Fields Supported:
- Electrical Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Business Management (BCom)
- Business Administration (BCom)
Eligible Universities:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- North-West University (Vanderbijlpark Campus)
- University of the Witwatersrand
Target Students:
- Current first-year students applying for second-year funding
- Current second-year students applying for third-year funding
- Current third-year students applying for fourth-year funding
Coverage May Include:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Examination fees
- Accommodation
- Textbooks and study materials
- Living allowance
Preference Given To:
- Black women
- Black students under 35 years old
- Black students with disabilities
About the Schauenburg Education Trust
The Schauenburg Education Trust was established to support the development of scarce and critical skills in South Africa. Through its bursary programme, the Trust helps talented students gain access to quality education and graduate with qualifications that contribute to economic growth and workforce development.
The Trust works closely with Schauenburg Systems (Pty) Ltd, providing successful bursary recipients with opportunities to gain practical exposure through vacation work and job-shadowing programmes.
This approach ensures that students not only receive financial assistance but also gain valuable workplace experience that can improve their employability after graduation.
The bursary programme aligns with South Africa’s broader goals of skills development, transformation, and increasing participation in critical sectors of the economy.
Why This Bursary is Important
Engineering and business qualifications continue to be among the most sought-after fields in South Africa.
Electrical engineers play a critical role in:
- Infrastructure development
- Power systems
- Telecommunications
- Industrial automation
- Renewable energy projects
Similarly, business graduates contribute to:
- Corporate management
- Financial planning
- Strategic development
- Entrepreneurship
- Organisational leadership
By funding students in these fields, the Schauenburg Education Trust is helping to build a stronger pipeline of skilled professionals for the future.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is intended for students who are already enrolled at university and making good academic progress.
Applicants must be:
- South African citizens with a valid South African ID
- Black persons as defined by B-BBEE legislation
- Willing to attend interviews
- Willing to complete psychometric assessments
- Willing to participate in vacation work or job-shadowing programmes
- Studying full-time at one of the specified universities
Preference may be given to:
- Black women
- Black students under 35 years of age
- Black students living with disabilities
Which Students Are Eligible?
Students currently studying any of the following qualifications may apply:
Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSc)
Business Qualifications
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Business Management
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Business Administration
Applicants should currently be:
- First-year students applying for second-year funding
- Second-year students applying for third-year funding
- Third-year students applying for fourth-year funding
Universities Eligible for the 2027 Intake
For the 2027 bursary cycle, only students enrolled at the following universities may apply:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- North-West University
- University of the Witwatersrand
Students studying at universities outside this list are not eligible for the current bursary cycle.
The Trust also states that bursaries are not awarded to students studying at:
- Universities of Technology
- TVET Colleges
- Other colleges or institutions not specified by the Trust
Academic Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance.
The Trust specifically requires students to show:
- Good academic progress
- Successful completion of registered modules
- Consistent performance throughout their studies
Applicants should have passed all courses for which they registered.
Students with strong academic records are likely to be more competitive during the selection process.
What Does the Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary Cover?
One of the major advantages of this bursary is its comprehensive funding package.
Successful applicants may receive funding for some or all of the following:
- University Fees
The bursary may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Examination fees
These costs will generally be paid directly to the university.
- Accommodation
Students may receive funding equivalent to:
- The average cost of a single room in a university residence
The final amount will be determined by the Trustees.
- Textbooks and Study Materials
Funding may be provided for:
- Prescribed textbooks
- Academic resources
- Course materials
- Living Allowance
The bursary may also provide:
- Financial support for daily living expenses
The exact value will be communicated to successful candidates.
Vacation Work and Job Shadowing Requirement
An important component of the bursary programme is workplace exposure.
Successful applicants must be willing to spend at least:
Three weeks during their mid-year university holidays
Participating in:
- Vacation work programmes
- Job-shadowing opportunities
These activities take place at Schauenburg Systems and provide valuable industry exposure.
Students gain practical insights into professional environments while building workplace skills that employers value.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants will need to submit several supporting documents through the online application system.
These include:
- Cover letter
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Full university academic record
- Latest tertiary results
Ensure that all documents are clear, complete, and submitted before the closing date.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple stages.
Step 1: Online Application
Students must complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
Step 2: Screening
Applications are reviewed against the bursary requirements.
Step 3: Interviews
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
Step 4: Psychometric Testing
Candidates may be required to complete psychometric assessments.
Step 5: Final Selection
The Trustees make the final decision regarding bursary awards.
Step 6: Bursary Agreement
Successful applicants will receive:
- Bursary documentation
- Contractual agreements
- Additional programme information
How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE SCHAUENBURG EDUCATION TRUST BURSARY PROGRAMME 2027 HERE
Students may also request assistance or application forms via:
Do not wait until the last day to apply. Early applications provide time to resolve any technical issues or missing documents.
Important Conditions
Applicants should take note of the following:
- Students already receiving another bursary for the 2026 academic year will not be considered.
- Bursaries are awarded based on merit and financial need.
- Trustees have full discretion regarding bursary awards.
- Funding can be withdrawn if academic performance declines significantly.
- Funding may be withdrawn if bursary conditions are breached.
- The list of approved universities may be amended by the Trustees.
Related Articles:
Bursary Application Calendar for South African Students: When to Apply and Never Miss a Deadline
How to Prepare for Bursary Interviews: A Complete Guide for South African Students
What Happens After You Apply for a Bursary? Understanding the Selection Process
How to Find Fully Funded Bursaries in South Africa: A Complete Guide for Students
Common Reasons South African Bursary Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)
NSFAS vs Bursaries vs Scholarships: What Is the Difference?
How to Write a Professional Student CV for Bursary Applications
How to Write a Winning Bursary Motivational Letter (With Examples)
How to Appeal an NSFAS Application Rejection (Step-by-Step Guide) 2026
How to Create a myNSFAS Account for 2026 Applications
How to Check NSFAS Application Status: A Detailed Guide
How to Apply for NSFAS: A Step-by-Step Application Process
Edupstairs Advice
The Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary Programme is an excellent opportunity for students who have already demonstrated academic commitment and are progressing well in their studies.
Because the bursary covers more than just tuition fees, successful applicants can focus more on their studies and less on financial pressures. The added opportunity to participate in vacation work and job-shadowing programmes also provides valuable industry exposure that can strengthen future employment prospects.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, gather your supporting documents early and submit your application well before the closing date of 31 July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do applications close?
Applications close on 31 July 2026.
Which qualifications are funded?
The bursary supports:
- Electrical Engineering (BEng or BSc)
- Business Management (BCom)
- Business Administration (BCom)
Which universities qualify?
Only students studying at:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- North-West University (Vanderbijlpark)
- University of the Witwatersrand
Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Current first-year students may apply for funding for their second year of study.
Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Yes. Accommodation funding may be provided based on university residence rates determined by the Trustees.
Can students with disabilities apply?
Yes. Preference may be given to Black students with disabilities who meet all other requirements.
Is vacation work compulsory?
Yes. Successful applicants must be willing to complete at least three weeks of vacation work or job shadowing.
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares educational and funding opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with the Schauenburg Education Trust. Applicants should verify all details and application requirements through the official bursary platform before applying.
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